Can Onlays Be Used to Treat Large Cavities in Cypress, TX?

If you have ever had a big cavity, you know how alarming it may be. It can degrade your tooth’s structure and cause pain and discomfort. Modern dentistry provides a range of solutions to repair broken teeth, which is fortunate. One such therapy for large cavities is onlays, which may be a fantastic choice. We’ll look at this blog on how onlays can efficiently repair large cavities, providing a conservative, long-lasting, and aesthetically appealing alternative to conventional crowns.

What Are Onlays?

Custom-designed restorations called onlays fill a cavity and coat the tooth’s surface. Unlike crowns, which cover the entire tooth, onlays cover only the damaged portion, preserving the healthy part of the tooth. Made from sturdy materials such as resin or porcelain, onlays are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, restoring both their appearance and function.

For people with large cavities, onlays in Cypress, TX, can be a viable treatment option. While saving more of your natural tooth structure, onlays can solve severe damage. Compared to full crowns, which often require more extensive tooth removal, this makes them a more conservative option.

How​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Do Onlays Help with Large Cavities?

Onlays serve best when the decay is too extensive for a simple filling, but the tooth does not need to be fully covered by a crown. Here are some of the reasons why onlays are considered the best solution for large cavities:

• Conservative Approach: Onlays, as opposed to crowns, need less removal of healthy tooth structure, thus more of your natural tooth is preserved.
• Durability: Onlays are made of strong materials, such as porcelain, which can withstand biting forces and resist wear for a long time.
• Aesthetic Benefits: Onlays are custom-made to the same color and shape as your natural teeth; thus, they are a perfect solution for your front teeth.
• Better Fit: Onlays are made in a dental lab from impressions of your tooth, ensuring an exact fit that enhances comfort and functionality.

Onlays can do extensive cavity restorations and bring back the strength and beauty of your tooth effectively, without the need for more invasive procedures such as ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌crowns.

When Are Onlays Recommended for Large Cavities?

Your dentist may recommend onlays in Cypress, TX if your cavity is too large for a filling but does not require a full crown. Onlays are ideal for:

• Moderate to Large Cavities: If your cavity is so advanced that it cannot be treated with a simple filling, but the whole tooth is not severely damaged, an onlay may be the ideal option.
• Fractured or Cracked Teeth: If a fracture or crack, caused by trauma or a large cavity, has damaged your tooth, onlays can restore its function.
• Conserving Tooth Structure: If preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible is a priority, onlays offer a conservative alternative to crowns.

Why​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ Choose Onlays Over Crowns?

Crowns are often used as a full-coverage option for a severely damaged tooth and are more destructive because they require more tooth removal. This, in turn, can weaken the remaining structure. Onlays, in contrast, involve less tooth preparation; thus, the healthy parts of your tooth are preserved. Hence, if you desire a more conservative treatment that still offers durability and a natural look, onlays will serve you as well.

The advanced technology and methods are utilized by Dr. Shannon Pham at Emmy Dental to make dental onlays that fit perfectly with your natural teeth. Onlay treatment can do wonders for your oral health if you have a large cavity or a broken tooth, while also maintaining the strength of your tooth.

Conclusion: Restore Your Smile with Onlays in Cypress, TX

Onlays can be an ideal option if you have a large cavity or a cracked tooth, as they restore both the function and the appearance of the tooth. Dr. Shannon Pham at Emmy Dental is committed to providing conservative, durable, and aesthetic treatments like onlays, an effective way to maintain a healthy smile. 

Schedule an appointment today to determine if onlays are suitable for you!

FAQs

What’s the difference between an onlay and a filling?

Onlays are placement procedures designed for large cavities that envelop most of the tooth, whereas fillings are limited to minor cavities.

How long do onlays last?

Onlays can be durable for decades if well-maintained.

Can I eat normally with an onlay?

Yes, but it is better if you do not eat hard foods right after the placement to allow for bonding.

Are onlays more expensive than crowns?

Since onlays require less tooth removal, they are generally less costly than crowns.

Can onlays be used on front teeth?

Onlays are available for both the front and back teeth. For a natural look, porcelain is used.

Do onlays require special care?

If you have onlays, regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups should be part of your routine.

How are onlays placed?

The treatment plan consists of two visits: the first for tooth preparation and impression making, and the second for onlay ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌placement.